A house with a living history
Fairfield is more than a heritage house - it’s a place shaped by people, ideas, and community spirit over generations. From its beginnings in the 19th century to its near loss and remarkable revival in the 1970s, Fairfield’s story is one of vision, resilience, and renewal.
Fairfield House c. 1903
Family gatherings at Fairfield, c. 1871
The Gallery, filled with antiquities
The story of Fairfield
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Fairfield as we know it today was shaped between 1872 and 1883 by Arthur Samuel Atkinson and his wife Jane Maria. Originally a modest cottage, the house was expanded into a distinctive residence - complete with its iconic tower, built to house Arthur’s telescope.
The Atkinsons were progressive thinkers, deeply involved in early New Zealand politics and social reform. Their home became a hub of ideas - from women’s education and suffrage to science and spirituality.
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Arthur Atkinson was a lawyer, writer, and passionate amateur astronomer. Jane Maria Atkinson was equally influential - a strong advocate for women’s rights and education. Together, their values shaped Fairfield into a place of learning, discussion, and community connection.
Their legacy lives on in the spirit of the house: open-minded, curious, and community-focused.
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After the Atkinson family, Fairfield entered a new chapter. From 1922, it became a boarding house and preparatory school, first for Nelson College for Girls and later for Nelson Boys College.
Until the students moved on in 1964, it was a “home away from home” for generations of students - filled with everyday life, friendships, and memories.
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By the 1970’s, Fairfield had fallen into disrepair. A fire had destroyed the boarding block, the grounds were unkept and weed ridden, and the building stood empty and deteriorating.
By 1979, demolition was imminent and the future of Fairfield hung in the balance.
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In 1979 Alan Stanton took the initiative and squatted in the old house to prevent further damage to the property. This action galvanised support from the Nelson community that led to the forming of Friends of Old Fairfield Inc (FOOF). In August 1979, FOOF took up the challenge to restore the old house with the vision of making it a community resource.
This was an enormous task, with fundraising, voluntary working bees, community work schemes and training courses all contributing to the effort. Over 500 people have worked on the place over the years and many new skills were taught and learnt in the process. As early as possible Fairfield House began to return gifts to Nelson by hosting functions and events.
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The surrounding woodland dates back to the 1850s and has been carefully nurtured over time. Today, the grounds are a blend of heritage trees, walking tracks, and open green space - maintained for the enjoyment of the public.
Fairfield is not just a house - it’s a living landscape shaped by generations.
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Today, Fairfield is once again a vibrant part of the Nelson community - a place for gatherings, celebrations, and shared experiences.
Its story continues to grow, shaped by the people who use and care for it.
1851 — Crown granted land (7 acres) to Neil McVicar
1872 – 1883 — Fairfield developed by the Atkinson family, residing here for 50 years
1922 — Becomes a prep school and boarding house for Nelson College for Girls
1930s — 1964 — Nelson Boys College boarding house
1965 — 1978 — House and land slowly fell into disrepair
1979 — Threatened with demolition
1979 — Saved by community action (FOOF formed)
Today — Restored as a community venue. Managed by Friends of Old Fairfield Inc for the last 46 years. Now working together with Te Here ā Nuku Trust in the ongoing care, administration and use of Fairfield House in accordance with the Te Here ā Nuku (Nelson Tenths) Act 2026.
Timeline
'Anything is Possible' chronicles the adventures of Fairfield's glorious resurrection: Major house parts are mysteriously returned; a vibrant committee, Friends of Old Fairfield, (FOOF) is brought to life and kiwi practical ingenuity, born of financial necessity, is beautifully portrayed.
Along the way there are reflections and anecdotes about life, sport, employment and politics, which Rachael says are all written in Alan's easy, humorous and approachable style.
'Anything is Possible' was published & launched in November 2013, sadly Alan died in April 2014.
'Anything is Possible' chronicles the adventures of Fairfield's glorious resurrection: Major house parts are mysteriously returned; a vibrant committee, Friends of Old Fairfield, (FOOF) is brought to life and kiwi practical ingenuity, born of financial necessity, is beautifully portrayed.
Along the way there are reflections and anecdotes about life, sport, employment and politics, which Rachael says are all written in Alan's easy, humorous and approachable style.
'Anything is Possible' was published & launched in November 2013, sadly Alan died in April 2014.